“We’re an American Band” became Grand Funk Railroad’s first #1 single. It was sung by Brewer rather than Farner, who usually took lead vocals. It is the 99th song on VH1’s 100 Greatest Hard Rock Songs.

Brewer’s lyrics are somewhat autobiographical, detailing the band’s recent tour and their energetic live performances. In the song, the band mentions traveling through Little Rock, Arkansas, as well as stopping to party with four groupies that sneak into their hotel in Omaha, Nebraska. The lyrics also mention “sweet sweet Connie”, which is a reference to legendary groupie Connie Hamzy.

Grand Funk was touring with the British group Humble Pie in early 1973. After one performance, the two groups were drinking in a bar when they began arguing over the merits of British versus American rock. Grand Funk drummer Don Brewer stood up and after bragging about American rock heroes such as Jerry Lee Lewis, Fats Domino, Little Richard, and Elvis Presley, proudly announced, “We’re an American band!”. Thus inspired, he wrote the song the next morning; by late 1973, it was the top-selling song in the world. A video was also made, showing the band playing the song as well as engaging in activities such as basketball, dirtbike riding, and watersports.

The original single was released on gold transparent vinyl.

In celebration of America’s Independence Day, here’s a live version from 1974!

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